I've been a dedicated Ingle's customer, however, I'm reaching out to express my disappointment with the apparent lack of transparency and forward movement concerning Ingles' pledge to switch to cage-free eggs by 2025.

I, along with many of my peers and the general public, value animal welfare and want to ensure that I am spending my money on ethical products. For this reason, I began researching Ingles' animal welfare and sustainability policies. I learned that one of my most frequented grocery stores,  Ingles, pledged to stop using cruel battery cages on innocent egg-laying hens. I’m very disappointed that they have refused to report any progress on their cage-free commitment or how they will meet their soon approaching deadline of 2025. 

Eggs that aren’t explicitly labeled as cage-free almost exclusively come from hens raised in battery cages. Battery cages are notorious for their inhumane living conditions, with 4-10 hens crammed into small, restrictive spaces that prevent them from engaging in natural behaviors. Although they don't always fully support hens' natural behaviors, cage-free facilities overwhelmingly spare hens from having to endure the intense physical and mental anguish that comes with spending the majority of their lives in cramped wire cages, with a space no larger than a sheet of paper per bird. By one estimate, on average, thousands of hours of pain are prevented for each hen raised in a cage-free compared to a caged system. Though we know that cage-free does not equal cruelty-free, eliminating cages spares egg-laying hens from the worst forms of physical and psychological harm. These living conditions can lead to stress, aggression, and many health issues, making it crucial for businesses to adopt cage-free systems that claim to prioritize animal welfare. 

Ingles has already recognized the cruelty of this practice, leading them to make a commitment. If Ingles' leadership seriously plans to fulfill their promise, why are they refusing to share plans for how they will do so? I am asking Ingles to publicly share annual goals concerning progress on their promise to go 100% cage-free by 2025. This level of transparency ensures businesses remain accountable to their customers and are on track to meet their cage-free commitments. By providing clear plans and regular updates, companies can build trust and show their dedication to creating a more humane and sustainable food system. Ultimately, this benefits the welfare of millions of hens, aligns with consumer values, and contributes to a more ethical food industry.

Ingles, we firmly believe that upholding your commitment to cage-free eggs is not just ethically responsible but also in harmony with the values of your customer base. Your transparency in detailing progress will fortify our confidence in Ingles as a brand that genuinely cares about animal welfare. Kindly provide a thorough update on the strides made towards transitioning to cage-free eggs and reaffirm your dedication to the values cherished by your customers.

By signing this petition, your input can be hugely influential in generating action on this important corporate & social responsibility (CSR) issue. 

Thank you!